Erik ten Hag reveals why Declan Rice did not join Man Utd, saying West Ham refused to sell the England midfielder to their Premier League rivals

Former Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has revealed that the club attempted to sign England midfielder Declan Rice during his time at Old Trafford.

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Ten Hag said United were interested in Rice but faced resistance from his former club, West Ham, who were unwilling to sell the midfielder to another Premier League side.

The Dutchman made the revelation during an interview with The Athletic, while reflecting on United’s transfer plans during his tenure.

Rice eventually left West Ham in the summer of 2023, joining Arsenal in a club-record deal worth £105 million.

According to Ten Hag, United could have pushed harder to determine whether a deal for the midfielder was possible.

“We wanted Declan Rice at United but the issue was that West Ham didn’t want to let him go,” Ten Hag said.

“I think we could have done more to test the waters.”

Rice subsequently became a key part of Arsenal’s midfield following his move to the Emirates Stadium.

Ten Hag’s comments offer fresh insight into United’s pursuit of the England international and the difficulties the club faced in trying to secure his signature.

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The former United manager has previously spoken about the club’s recruitment during his tenure, with Rice now established as one of Arsenal’s important players.